Magnus Search, a tech-driven blue-collar recruitment firm, has secured investment from Meraki Capital. The deal, which completed today, signals Meraki’s major move into this sector and marks a further bold step toward creating a scalable, tech-enabled group of specialist recruitment businesses.
Magnus Search, co-founded in 2017 by Bradley Wood, has grown organically. With operations across major UK cities and a head office in Maidstone, the company services clients in warehousing, logistics and aviation.
Bradley Wood will remain as CEO, while Meraki Capital’s founder Nick Gordon takes up the role of Chairman.
Bradley Wood said: “This partnership is about growth with purpose. We’ve built Magnus from scratch by being nimble, honest, and tech-driven – and now with Meraki on board, we’ve got the backing to take it to the next level. We’re aiming to compete head-on with the major players in the blue-collar space.”
Magnus has always positioned itself as a challenger brand, known for disrupting legacy players through service quality and early adoption of recruitment technology. It was one of the first in the sector to offer online candidate registration and plans to significantly invest in tech and automation with Meraki’s support – enhancing speed, compliance, and experience across the full candidate-to-client lifecycle.
Nick Gordon said the investment is part of a longer-term vision to build a wider group: “This is our first landmark deal in this sector, and Magnus is a standout operator in blue-collar recruitment. Meraki will have facilities of an initial £3.5m available to the business and with the right tech overlay and this growth capital, it’s the ideal platform to bolt on other well-known brands that need operational support or modernisation. We’re looking to create a group that’s known for innovation, efficiency, and strong leadership.”
The current team at Magnus has been developed through internal progression, with a strong culture of promoting from within – an ethos shared by Meraki Capital. The firm’s growth has been driven by long-term client relationships and a team-first culture, with a strong reputation across sectors for delivery and reliability.
“The UK recruitment industry is at a crossroads,” said Nick Gordon. “Margins are tight, clients are demanding more, and the only way to thrive is by combining real sector expertise with smart technology and a clear strategy. That’s what this deal is about.”
Meraki Capital is actively exploring further acquisitions to build out the group’s national footprint and expand sector coverage – with a particular focus on high-potential recruitment businesses that are under-leveraged or lacking tech investment. Already operating under the Meraki Capital family group of businesses is international staffing firm Hamlyn Williams.
